When Do Colonoscopies Start?

Most people in the U.S. are now advised to start colon cancer screening, often with a colonoscopy, at age 45 , assuming they are at average risk and have no symptoms or family history of colorectal cancer.

Quick Scoop

  • Average risk : First screening at age 45 , repeated roughly every 10 years if results are normal.
  • Higher risk or symptoms : Your doctor may recommend starting younger than 45 , especially with a close relative (parent or sibling) who had colon cancer or polyps.
  • Recent change : Many guidelines moved the starting age from 50 down to 45 because colorectal cancer rates have been rising in younger adults.

Guidelines From Major Groups

Here is a snapshot of when major U.S. groups say screening should start for average‑risk people:

Group / Guideline Body| Recommended Starting Age| Notes
---|---|---
American Cancer Society (ACS)| 45| Recommends any FDA‑approved method, including colonoscopy, starting at 45 for average‑risk adults. 19
U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF)| 45–50| Strongly recommends screening ages 50–75; opens the option to start at 45 based on shared decision‑making. 357
Colorectal cancer advocacy groups| 45| Emphasize 45 as the new “baseline” age, especially among rising early‑onset cases. 5

When You Might Start Earlier

Certain features can push your first colonoscopy younger than 45 , even into your 30s or 40s:

  • Family history : Lynch syndrome, familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), or a parent/sibling diagnosed with polyps or colorectal cancer under age 60.
  • Personal history : Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis) or prior unusual colon polyps.
  • Unexplained symptoms : Persistent rectal bleeding, unexplained anemia, or major changes in bowel habits.

Key Takeaways For Your Post

  • For a “normal‑risk” person, think: colon cancer screening starts at age 45 —and that often means a colonoscopy.
  • Forum / trending angle : Many people now ask, “Why so young?” Answer: colorectal cancer in people under 50 has been rising, so updated guidelines tell doctors to screen earlier.

If you’d like, I can help draft a short “1‑minute explainer” version tailored to publish under that “Quick Scoop” button.